Planning delays DSDHA's £60 million Westminster scheme

DSDHA has suffered a setback on its largest ever job, a £60 million luxury residential scheme in Westminster, after councillors deferred a decision on the project.

Westminster City Council planning officers had recommended the scheme for approval but councillors decided a site visit was necessary to explore concerns about the scale of the building.

The scheme, which was submitted for planning in March, is now expected to be reconsidered by councillors next year.

DSDHA’s plans involved demolishing two former Ministry of Justice buildings, known as Abell House & Cleland House, and replacing them with a 12-storey building containing 280 flats. Developer Berkeley Homes started work on the project in 2010 and was on track to start construction in 2012.

John Walker, operational director of development planning, said: “Whilst committee members agreed to the principle of the redevelopment including the design approach, they expressed concerns over the potential impact on adjoining residents.

“As such, the committee decided to defer the application for further discussions to take place.”